Hello and welcome,
I'm so grateful you're here.
Today I invite you to pause and explore the nature of intrusive thoughts,
Those repeating patterns of doubt,
Worry,
Or self-criticism that can seem so convincing,
Yet quietly pull us away from our sense of peace and trust in ourselves.
Intrusive thoughts can show up in many subtle ways.
Some of us may worry that we're too much for others,
Or feel a quiet fear that we must prove ourselves to be accepted.
Some of us catch ourselves seeking validation,
Only to feel guilty or ashamed for simply wanting to be seen.
We might struggle to trust our ability to belong,
Or feel tension around showing our true selves in friendships or relationships.
Intrusive thoughts might also shape the way we relate to love,
Noticing ourselves trying to fit others into strict expectations,
Or scanning for signs of disappointment,
Hoping to avoid being hurt.
And in our working lives,
These thoughts can whisper that we need a more prestigious job,
Or a more impressive title,
Just to feel worthy.
The mind creates these patterns in attempt to keep us safe,
To protect us from rejection or pain.
But over time,
These thoughts can harden into stories that limit us,
Keeping us in cycles of guilt,
Shame,
And doubt.
If you've ever felt worried that naming a problem makes you a negative person,
Or feared that a partner might judge you for sharing your concerns,
You're not alone.
If you've ever wondered whether people would still embrace you if you showed your whole self,
Your sensitive or critical parts,
Your playful and serious sides,
You're not alone.
We all carry these patterns to some extent.
It is important to remember that intrusive thoughts are not a reflection of your worth.
They are simply echoes of old fears.
Often,
Other people's behavior,
Especially when it feels dismissive,
Competitive,
Or distant,
Has more to do with their own insecurities than with you.
Their reactions do not define your value.
And when it comes to love,
Intrusive thoughts may tell us that we need to assess everyone as a potential partner,
Or measure them against certain criteria.
But love can be flowy,
Surprising,
And real in ways we cannot script.
Trusting that we already are deserving of love,
Right here,
Right now,
Allows us to soften and to relate from a place of openness rather than fear.
In our friendships,
We might rely on humor or a lighthearted presence to keep things comfortable,
Worried that sharing deeper or more vulnerable truths could push people away.
But showing up fully,
Even with our honest reflections and tender places,
Is a courageous act of authenticity.
And with our careers or financial dreams,
Intrusive thoughts might convince us that only the next big thing will make us worthy.
But what if we choose to seek a role that supports the life we want,
Rather than using our job as a measure of our value?
So how can we move through these intrusive thoughts with more compassion?
When you notice them rising,
Pause,
Breathe deeply,
And gently ask yourself,
Is this thought keeping me small or helping me grow?
Is this thought rooted in fear or in love?
What would I say to a dear friend who shared this same thought?
These questions can soften the grip of intrusive thoughts.
They remind us that we are not defined by them.
We are the loving awareness that witnesses them.
I invite you in the days ahead to meet these thoughts with gentle curiosity.
When they appear,
Place a hand on your heart if it feels supportive and remind yourself,
I am not this thought,
I am the observer of it.
I am allowed to grow,
To change,
To love myself,
Right here,
Right now.
Take a moment to breathe that in.
You are worthy of the love you dream of,
The friendships you long for,
And the life you envision,
Simply because you exist.
You do not need to earn your worthiness.
May you remember,
Whenever these intrusive thoughts visit,
That you have the right to live fully and to share your whole self with the world.
You are enough,
Just as you are.
Thank you for being here and for listening.
May you move forward with kindness towards your mind and trust in your heart.
Namaste.
